U.S. patent application number 12/008793 was filed with the patent office on 2009-07-16 for pyrotechnic cup.
This patent application is currently assigned to Autoliv ASP, Inc.. Invention is credited to Mike Ayers, Dario G. Brisighella, JR..
Application Number | 20090179408 12/008793 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40849972 |
Filed Date | 2009-07-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090179408 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Brisighella, JR.; Dario G. ;
et al. |
July 16, 2009 |
Pyrotechnic cup
Abstract
A new type of pyrotechnic cup is disclosed. The pyrotechnic cup
is designed such that it may be used as part of an airbag
initiator. In some embodiments, the cup comprises a cylindrical
portion and a dome that is attached to a first end of the
cylindrical portion. A cruciform is also added to the cup. The
cruciform is positioned at the apex of the dome. In some
embodiments, the cruciform comprises one or more petals. Other
embodiments may be designed in which deployment of the initiator
causes gas to be directed out of the pyrotechnic cup via the apex
of the dome.
Inventors: |
Brisighella, JR.; Dario G.;
(North Logan, UT) ; Ayers; Mike; (Layton,
UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Sally J. Brown;AUTOLIV ASP, INC.
3350 Airport Road
Ogden
UT
84405
US
|
Assignee: |
Autoliv ASP, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
40849972 |
Appl. No.: |
12/008793 |
Filed: |
January 14, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
280/741 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60R 21/26 20130101;
B60R 21/264 20130101; F42B 3/04 20130101; B60R 2021/26029
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
280/741 |
International
Class: |
B60R 21/26 20060101
B60R021/26 |
Claims
1. A pyrotechnic cup designed for use as part of an initiator, the
cup comprising: a cylindrical portion; a dome having an apex, the
dome attached to a first end of the cylindrical portion; and a
cruciform positioned at the apex of the dome.
2. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 1 wherein the cruciform defines
one or more petals.
3. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 1 wherein a top piece of the dome
is substantially flat.
4. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 1 further comprising a projection
welding flange positioned at a second end of the cylindrical
portion.
5. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 4 wherein the diameter of the
projection welding flange is greater than the diameter of the
cylindrical portion.
6. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 1 wherein the cup houses a squib
and a quantity of combustible material.
7. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 1 further comprising a crimped
bend that expands during deployment of the initiator.
8. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 7, wherein the crimped bend is
intermediate of the dome and a projection welding flange that is
positioned at a second end of the cylindrical portion.
9. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 1 wherein upon deployment of the
initiator, gas is directed out of the pyrotechnic cup via the apex
of the dome.
10. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 1, wherein the cruciform
comprises a weakened area of the dome.
11. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 1, wherein the cruciform is
positioned on an outer surface of the dome.
12. An initiator for use with an airbag inflator, the initiator
comprising: a squib; a quantity of combustible material, wherein
the combustible material is ignited by the squib during deployment;
a pyrotechnic cup that houses the squib and the combustible
material, wherein the cup comprises, a cylindrical portion, a dome
attached to a first end of the cylindrical portion, a cruciform
positioned at an apex of the dome, and a projection welding flange
positioned at a second end of the cylindrical portion, wherein the
projection welding flange attaches the pyrotechnic cup to the
squib.
13. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 12 further comprising a crimped
bend that expands as a result of ignition of the combustible
material, wherein the crimped bend is positioned in the cylindrical
portion.
14. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 12 wherein the diameter of the
projection welding flange is greater than the diameter of the
cylindrical portion.
15. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 12, wherein the cruciform
comprises a weakened area of the dome.
16. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 12, wherein the cruciform is
positioned on an outer surface of the dome.
17. A method for preventing fragmentation of a pyrotechnic cup in
an inflator, the method comprising: obtaining a pyrotechnic cup,
the cup comprising: a cylindrical portion; a dome attached to a
first end of the cylindrical portion, the dome having an apex; and
a cruciform positioned at the apex of the dome; and positioning the
cup around a squib and a combustible material, wherein the dome
prevents fragmentation of the cup.
18. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 7, wherein the crimped bend
comprises an overlapped portion that is folded either inwardly or
outwardly.
19. A pyrotechnic cup as in claim 7, wherein the crimped bend
telescopes out from a based during deployment.
20. A pyrotechnic cup designed for use as part of an initiator, the
cup comprising: a cylindrical portion; a dome having an apex, the
dome attached to a first end of the cylindrical portion; a
cruciform; and a crimped bend that expands during deployment of the
initiator, wherein the crimped bend is intermediate of the done and
a projection welding flange that is positioned at a second end of
the cylindrical portion.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] Airbags and airbag systems have been implemented and used on
motor vehicles for many years as a safety device. These systems are
designed such that, in the event of a crash or accident, an airbag
will be inflated and positioned adjacent the vehicle occupant. Such
positioning of the airbag prevents the vehicle occupant from
harmful impact with the steering wheel, the dashboard, or other
portions of the vehicle interior. Because airbag systems have been
credited with saving many lives, the inclusion of airbag systems on
new vehicles is now a requirement in many countries.
[0002] In order to deploy the airbag, the airbag system will
generally include an inflator. An inflator is a device that is
capable of rapidly producing/channeling large quantities of
inflation gas into the airbag during deployment. This influx of gas
into the airbag inflates the airbag and causes the airbag to become
positioned on the vehicle interior.
[0003] In order to rapidly deploy the airbag, the inflator will
generally include an initiator. The initiator generally includes a
combustible material that is ignited upon receipt of the
appropriate signal. Such ignition of the combustible material, in
turn, creates a pressure change in the inflator and results in
deployment of the inflator.
[0004] The combustible material found in the initiator is generally
housed within a "cup" (which is sometimes called a "pyrotechnic
cup"). The cup is generally a wall that surrounds the combustible
material. Unfortunately, during ignition/combustion of the
combustible material, the pressure change caused by combustion
often causes the cup to fragment into small pieces. Obviously, it
is undesirable to have fragments of the cup enter the airbag;
accordingly, the inflator must be designed to ensure that these
fragments are retained within the inflator and not allowed to enter
the airbag.
[0005] In order to capture fragments produced by ignition, many
currently constructed initiators will include a glass to metal seal
("GTMS") header with a laser welded charge holder. This charge
holder serves as a pressure vessel that reduces the stress in the
cup and prevents the cup from fragmenting. Other inflators also add
a cup retention device, such as a screen, to retain fragments of
the pyrotechnic cup. Unfortunately, these charge holders and/or cup
retention devices increase the cost of the inflator. Accordingly,
there is a need in the art for a new type of inflator that does not
require charge holders/cup retention devices, yet still prevents
cup fragments from entering the airbag. Such a device is disclosed
herein.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention embodiments relate to a pyrotechnic
cup that may be used as part of an airbag initiator. In some
embodiments, the cup comprises a cylindrical portion and a dome
that is attached to a first end of the cylindrical portion. A
cruciform is also added to the cup. The cruciform is positioned at
the apex of the dome. In some embodiments, the cruciform defines
one or more petals. Other embodiments may be designed in which
deployment of the initiator causes gas to be directed out of the
pyrotechnic cup via the apex of the dome.
[0007] Further embodiments may be designed in which a top piece is
added to the dome. The top piece may be substantially flat. Other
shapes and/or configurations for the top piece may also be used. In
other embodiments a projection welding flange is added to the cup.
The projection welding flange may be positioned at a second end of
the cylindrical portion. The diameter of the projection welding
flange may be greater than the diameter of the cylindrical
portion.
[0008] Other embodiments may be designed in which the pyrotechnic
cup also includes a crimped bend that expands during deployment of
the initiator. This crimped bend may be positioned intermediate of
the dome and the projection welding flange. Yet additional
embodiments may be designed in which the pyrotechnic cup houses a
squib and a quantity of combustible material. In some embodiments,
the crimped bend comprises an overlapped portion. The overlapped
portion may be formed by folding material either inwardly or
outwardly. In some embodiments, the expansion of the cylindrical
portion upon actuation of the initiator unfolds the overlapped
portion. Such "unfolding" of the overlapped portion may occur,
either in whole or in part.
[0009] Other embodiments of the present invention relate to an
initiator. The initiator may be used with an airbag inflator. In
these embodiments, the initiator comprises a squib and a quantity
of combustible material. The combustible material may be ignited by
the squid during deployment of the initiator. A pyrotechnic cup is
also added to the initiator. The cup houses the squib and the
combustible material. The cup comprises a cylindrical portion, a
dome attached to a first end of the cylindrical portion, a
cruciform positioned at the apex of the dome, and a projection
welding flange positioned at a second end of the cylindrical
portion. The projection welding flange attaches the pyrotechnic cup
to the squib.
[0010] In some embodiments, the diameter of the projection welding
flange is greater than the diameter of the cylindrical portion. In
other embodiments, the pyrotechnic cup will further include a
crimped bend that expands as a result of ignition of the
combustible material, wherein the crimped bend is positioned in the
cylindrical portion.
[0011] The present embodiments also relate to a method for
preventing fragmentation of a pyrotechnic cup in an inflator. The
method may include the step of obtaining a pyrotechnic cup. This
pyrotechnic cup comprises a cylindrical portion, a dome attached to
a first end of the cylindrical portion, and a cruciform positioned
at the apex of the dome. The method also includes the step of
positioning the cup around a squib and a combustible material. Once
positioned, the dome prevents fragmentation of the cup.
[0012] The present embodiments relate to a pyrotechnic cup that may
be used as part of an initiator. The initiator may then be added to
an airbag inflator and used as part of an airbag system. The
present pyrotechnic cup is designed such that during deployment,
the cup will have minimal or no fragmentation.
[0013] The pyrotechnic cup may include a cylindrical portion and a
dome. The dome may be positioned at an end of the cylindrical
portion. The dome may also have an apex. The dome may further
comprise a top piece and a tapered portion. The tapered portion is
connected to the cylindrical portion. The tapered portion may be
curved and may create a smooth transition from the top piece to the
cylindrical portion.
[0014] The pyrotechnic cup may also include a cruciform. The
cruciform may be added to the apex of the dome. The cruciform may
comprise one or more slits or openings in the dome. In further
embodiments, the cruciform will comprise a weakened area of the
dome. In further embodiments, the cruciform may be added to an
outer surface of the dome. Yet additional embodiments may be
designed in which the cruciform comprises a weakened area of the
dome.
[0015] The pyrotechnic cup may further include a projection welding
flange. The projection welding flange is a flange, ring or other
feature that extends from the cylindrical portion. The projection
flange and may be used to attach (via welding, etc.) the
pyrotechnic cup to a squib or other portions of the initiator. The
projection welding flange may be positioned at a second end of the
cylindrical portion. The diameter of the projection welding flange
may be larger than the diameter of the cylindrical portion.
[0016] A crimped bend may also be added to the pyrotechnic cup. In
some embodiments, the crimped bend is added to the cylindrical
portion. In further embodiments, the bend is positioned
intermediate of the dome and the welding flange. The crimped bend
is a portion or section of cup that has been folded inward, thereby
forming an overlapped portion.
[0017] The pyrotechnic cup is designed that it may be used in
conjunction with an initiator. Upon receipt of a signal indicating
a crash condition, the initiator is activated. Such activation
causes an electrical charge and/or current to be transmitted,
through wires, to a quantity of combustible material housed within
the pyrotechnic cup. Such a transmission of current/electrical
charge to the combustible material ignites the combustible material
forming gas within the cup.
[0018] The formation of the gas in the cup increases the pressure
within the cup. In turn, the increase in pressure in the cup causes
the crimped bend to expand. More specifically, the formation of the
gas pushes against the cup and causes the crimped bend to unfold
and expand, thereby increasing the length of the pyrotechnic
cup.
[0019] The presence of the cruciform in the pyrotechnic cup creates
a high stress region located proximate the apex of the dome.
Accordingly, when the gas has formed, the gas pushes against the
cruciform and may, in some embodiments, cause the cruciform to
deflect outward (i.e., away from the flange), prior to opening the
cruciform. Ultimately however, the pressure created by the gas will
open the cruciform and allow the gas to escape the cup by passing
through the opening in the dome's apex.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] In order that the manner in which the above-recited and
other features and advantages of the invention are obtained will be
readily understood, a more particular description of the invention
briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific
embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings.
Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments
of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be
limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and
explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of
the accompanying drawings in which:
[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pyrotechnic cup according
to the present embodiments;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional, cut-away view of an inflator
that incorporates the pyrotechnic cup of FIG. 1;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional, cut-away view of the inflator
of FIG. 2 after the inflator has received a signal indicating a
crash condition;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional, cut-away view that illustrates
the inflator of FIG. 3 after the cruciform of the cup has
opened.
[0025] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
pyrotechnic cup according to the present embodiments;
[0026] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG.
5A;
[0027] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
pyrotechnic cup according to the present embodiments;
[0028] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
pyrotechnic cup according to the present embodiments;
[0029] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG.
7;
[0030] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
pyrotechnic cup according to the present embodiments; and
[0031] FIGS. 9 through 11 are cross-sectional view which illustrate
the way in which the pyrotechnic cups of the present embodiments
may be attached.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0032] The presently preferred embodiments of the present invention
will be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like
parts are designated by like numerals throughout. It will be
readily understood that the components of the present invention, as
generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, could be
arranged and designed in a wide variety of different
configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of
the embodiments of the present invention, as represented in the
Figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as
claimed, but is merely representative of presently preferred
embodiments of the invention.
[0033] Referring now to FIG. 1, a perspective view of an embodiment
of a pyrotechnic cup 10 is illustrated. This pyrotechnic cup 10 is
designed for use with an airbag inflator (not shown in FIG. 1).
More specifically, the pyrotechnic cup 10 may be used as part of an
initiator assembly 12 that operates to deploy an inflator during a
crash or accident. As is explained in greater detail herein, the
pyrotechnic cup 10 is designed such that during deployment, the cup
10 will have minimal or no fragmentation. Accordingly, the risk
that fragments will form and enter the airbag during deployment is
greatly reduced by the use of the pyrotechnic cup 10.
[0034] The cup 10 is designed to surround and enclose a squib (not
shown in FIG. 1) and a quantity of combustible material (not shown
in FIG. 1). In general, upon receipt of the appropriate signal, the
combustible material will be ignited and combust within the cup
10.
[0035] The cup 10 may include a cylindrical portion 14 and a dome
18. The dome 18 may be positioned at a first end 22 of the
cylindrical portion 14. In some embodiments, the cylindrical
portion 14 and the dome 18 are made of the same material, such as
metal. Other embodiments may be designed in which the cylindrical
portion 14 and the dome 18 are made of different materials. In
further embodiments, the cylindrical portion 14 is made of a first
metal whereas the dome 18 is made of a second metal.
[0036] In some embodiments, the cylindrical portion 14 and the dome
18 are two separate elements that have been welded, affixed,
press-fit, or otherwise connected together. In other embodiments,
the cylindrical portion 14 and the dome 18 are portions of the
same, integral member that has been cast or otherwise formed.
[0037] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the dome 18 comprises a
top piece 26 and a tapered portion 30. The tapered portion 30 is
connected to the cylindrical portion 14. In some embodiments, the
top piece 26 and the tapered portion 30 are two distinct pieces
that have been welded, affixed or otherwise connected together. In
other embodiments, the tapered portion 30 and the top piece 26 are
sections or portions of the same, integral member.
[0038] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the top piece 26 may be
flat or substantially flat. This means that the top piece 26 is
perpendicular, or substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal
axis 34 of the pyrotechnic cup 10. Of course, other embodiments may
be constructed in which the top piece 26 is curved or rounded.
[0039] The tapered portion 30 will generally be curved and creates
a smooth transition from the top piece 30 to the cylindrical
portion 14. In some embodiments, the curvature of the tapered
portion 30 will be parabolic in shape. In other embodiments, the
curvature of the tapered portion 30 may be spherical or radiused in
shape. Other shapes and/or configurations for the tapered portion
30 may also be used.
[0040] The pyrotechnic cup 10 may also include a cruciform 38. The
cruciform 38 may be added to the apex 42 of the dome 18. The
cruciform 38 may comprise a weakened area 39 of the dome 18. In
some embodiments, this weakened portion 39 may be slits, grooves,
depressions, tear seams, or other similar features added to the
dome 18. As shown in FIG. 1, the weakened area 39 may be positioned
on an outer surface 41 of the dome 18. Other embodiments may also
be constructed in which the weakened portion 39 is added to the
underside of the dome 18. Other embodiments may also be constructed
in which the weakened portion 39 is added to an internal surface of
the dome 18. In some embodiments, the weakened area 39 may be
designed such that, during actuation, the weakened area 39 will
open up into one or more slits or openings in the dome 18.
[0041] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the cruciform 38 defines one or
more petals 46. Of course, other shapes and/or configurations for
the cruciform 38 may also be used. Further, in the embodiment shown
in FIG. 1, a portion of the cruciform 38 is positioned on the top
piece 26 whereas a portion of the cruciform 38 is positioned on the
tapered portion 30. Other embodiments may also be constructed in
which the entirety of the cruciform 38 is positioned on the top
piece 26. Still other embodiments may be constructed in which the
entirety of the cruciform 38 is positioned on the tapered portion
30.
[0042] Referring still to FIG. 1, the pyrotechnic cup 10 may
further include a projection welding flange 50. The projection
welding flange 50 is a flange, ring or other feature that extends
from the cylindrical portion 14 and may be used to attach (via
welding, etc.) the pyrotechnic cup 10 to a squib or other portions
of the initiator. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the diameter
54 of the projection welding flange 50 is larger than the diameter
58 of the cylindrical portion 14. However, other sizes and/or
configurations are also possible.
[0043] The projection welding flange 50 may be positioned at a
second end 62 of the cylindrical portion 14. Of course, in other
embodiments the flange 50 may be positioned along a middle or
interior portion of the cylindrical portion 14.
[0044] A crimped bend 66 may also be added to the pyrotechnic cup
10. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 1,
the crimped bend 66 is added to the cylindrical portion 14.
However, in other embodiments, the crimped bend 66 may be added to
other portions of the pyrotechnic cup 10, including the welding
flange 50. In further embodiments, the bend 66 is positioned
intermediate of the dome 18 and the welding flange 50. The crimped
bend 66 is a portion or section of the cup 10 that has been folded
inward, thereby forming an overlapped portion 67 (shown in FIG. 2).
As explained herein, this crimped bend 66 may unfold during
deployment of the initiator, thereby increasing the longitudinal
length of the pyrotechnic cup 10.
[0045] As noted above, embodiments may be constructed in which the
top piece 26 is flat or substantially flat. In these embodiments,
the flat (or substantially flat) region of the top piece 26
constitutes the apex 42 of the dome 18.
[0046] Referring now to FIG. 2, a cross-sectional view illustrates
the pyrotechnic cup 10 being used as part of an initiator 70. The
initiator 70 may be positioned as part of an airbag inflator 74.
More specifically, the initiator 70 is designed such that upon
receipt of the appropriate signal, the initiator 70 will actuate.
Such actuation of the initiator 70 actuates the inflator 74 and
causes the inflator 74 to produce/channel a volume of inflation gas
into the vehicle airbag (not shown).
[0047] The initiator 70 includes a squib 78 and a quantity of
combustible material 82. The squib 78 and the combustible material
82 are housed within the pyrotechnic cup 10. The squib 78 also may
include one or more wires 86 that are capable of transmitting
current and/or an electrical charge to the combustible material
82.
[0048] The amount of the combustible material 82 housed within the
pyrotechnic cup 10 depends upon a variety of factors including the
size of the inflator, the type of the inflator, the amount of
pyrotechnic material included in the inflator (if any), etc. As
shown in FIG. 2, the cup 10 is substantially filled with
combustible material 82. However, greater or lesser amounts of the
combustible material 82 may also be used. The selection of the
amount of combustible material can be made by those of skill in the
art, taking in account a variety of different factors.
[0049] Referring now to FIG. 3, a cross-sectional view illustrates
the deployment of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 in greater detail.
Upon receipt of a signal indicating a crash condition, the
initiator 70 is activated. Such activation causes an electrical
charge and/or current to be transmitted, through the wires 86, to
the combustible material 82 (shown in FIG. 2). Such a transmission
of current/electrical change to the combustible material 82 ignites
the combustible material 86 and forms gas 90. The creation of the
gas 90 significantly increases the pressure within the pyrotechnic
cup 10.
[0050] The increase in pressure in the cup 10 causes the crimped
bend 66 to expand. More specifically, the formation of the gas 90
pushes against the cup 10 and causes the crimped bend 66 to unfold
and expand, thereby increasing the length of the pyrotechnic cup
10. In those embodiments in which the crimped bend 66 is absent,
stress/pressure associated with ignition of the combustible
material 82 is directed to the welding flange 50. However, in the
embodiments having a crimped bend 66, some of the stress/pressure
associated with ignition is used to expand the crimped bend 66,
thereby reducing the amount of stress/pressure imposed upon the
welding flange 50. Such a reduction in the amount of stress
experienced by the welding flange 50 may, in some embodiments, be
desirable in that it prevents the cup 10/welding flange 50 from
separating from the squib 78 (or other portions of the inflator 74,
including the initiator 70).
[0051] In some embodiments, the presence of the crimped bend 66 may
also create a stress gradient in the pyrotechnic cup 10. More
specifically, the fact that the bend 66 may expand and unfold means
that there is a greater amount of stress from the
ignition/combustion of the material 82 proximate the cruciform 38
than there is proximate the welding flange 50.
[0052] Referring still to FIG. 3, the presence of the cruciform 38
in the pyrotechnic cup 10 creates a high stress region located
proximate the apex 42 of the dome 18. Accordingly, when the gas 90
has formed, the gas 90 pushes against the cruciform 38 and may, in
some embodiments, cause the cruciform 38 to deflect outward (i.e.,
away from the flange 50), prior to having the cruciform 38 open.
Thus, even if the dome 18/top piece 26 is flat or substantially
flat prior to deployment, an "apex" of the dome 18 will be formed
during deployment.
[0053] Referring now to FIG. 4, another stage of the deployment of
the initiator 70 is illustrated. Specifically, after the internal
pressure associated with the combustion of the combustible material
82 exceeds a threshold level, the cruciform 38 will open. More
specifically, each of the petals 46 opens, thereby creating a
passageway in the apex 42 through which the gas 90 may escape into
the airbag inflator 74. In turn, this influx of gas 90 into the
airbag inflator 74 actuates the inflator 74 (by either igniting a
pyrotechnic material in the inflator and/or by increasing the
pressure of the inflator 74 above a threshold value). As is known
in the art, the actuation of the inflator 74 operates to
produce/channel a quantity of inflation gas into the airbag.
[0054] Referring now to FIG. 5A, a new embodiment of a pyrotechnic
cup 110 is illustrated. The cup 110 may be similar and/or identical
to the pyrotechnic cup 10 discussed above. However, for purposes of
brevity, much of this discussion will not be repeated. The cup 110
may be used in conjunction with an initiator as described above.
The cup 110 includes a cylindrical portion 14 and a dome 18. A
cruciform 38 may also be added. The cruciform 38 may be positioned
at the apex 42 of the dome 18. In some embodiments, this apex 42 of
the dome 18 is added to a first end 22 of the cylindrical portion
14.
[0055] The cup 110 may be designed such that during deployment, the
pyrotechnic cup 110 will have minimal or no fragmentation.
Accordingly, the risk that fragments will form and enter the airbag
during deployment is greatly reduced by the use of the pyrotechnic
cup 110.
[0056] In some embodiments, the dome 18 comprises a top piece 26
and a tapered portion 30. The tapered portion 30 is connected to
the cylindrical portion 14. In the embodiment of FIG. 5A, the
tapered portion 30 and the top piece 26 are sections or portions of
the same, integral member.
[0057] A projection welding flange 50 may also be added to the
pyrotechnic cup 110. The welding flange 50 may be used to attach
the pyrotechnic cup 110 to a squib or other portions of the
initiator. In the embodiment of FIG. 5A, the diameter of the
projection welding flange 50 is larger than the diameter of the
cylindrical portion 14. However, other sizes and/or configurations
for the welding flange 50 are also possible.
[0058] As with the embodiment discussed above, the cup 110 may
include a crimped bend 166. This crimped bend 166 is shown in
greater detail in FIG. 5B (which is a cross-sectional view of FIG.
5A). The crimped bend 166 may be formed by folding the cylindrical
portion 14 (or other portion of the cup 110) outward, thereby
creating an overlapped portion 167. (As noted above, the crimped
bend 66 discussed above may be formed by folding the cylindrical
portion 14 inward.) In some embodiments, the crimped bend 166 may
fold or expand during deployment of the initiator, thereby
increasing the longitudinal length of the cup 110.
[0059] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the bend 166 is
positioned proximate the welding flange 50. Of course, other
positions for the bend 166 along the length of the cup 110 may also
be used.
[0060] In other embodiments, one or more grooves may be used in
conjunction with the crimped bend 166 (or the crimped bend 66).
These grooves are indentations that are positioned on the
cylindrical portion 14. During deployment, such grooves may expand
to increase the longitudinal length of the cup. In further
embodiments, the grooves may be used in lieu of the crimped bend
166 (or crimped bend 66).
[0061] During deployment of the initiator, the pressure within the
cup 110 increases and causes the crimped bend 166 to expand. More
specifically, the formation of the gas 90 (not shown in FIG. 5B)
pushes against the cup 110 and causes the crimped bend 166 to
unfold and expand, thereby increasing the length of the pyrotechnic
cup 110. In those embodiments in which the crimped bend 166 is
absent, stress/pressure associated with ignition s directed to the
welding flange 50. However, in the embodiments having a crimped
bend 166, some of the stress/pressure associated with ignition is
used to expand the crimped bend 166, thereby reducing the amount of
stress/pressure imposed upon the welding flange 50. Such a
reduction in the amount of stress experienced by the welding flange
50 may, in some embodiments, be desirable in that it prevents the
cup 110/welding flange 50 from separating. In some embodiments, the
presence of the crimped bend 166 may also create a stress gradient
in the pyrotechnic cup 110. More specifically, the fact that the
bend 166 may expand and unfold means that there is a greater amount
of stress from the ignition/combustion proximate the cruciform 38
than there is proximate the welding flange 50.
[0062] Referring now to FIG. 6, a further embodiment of a
pyrotechnic cup 210 is illustrated. The pyrotechnic cup 210 is
similar and/or identical to the embodiments discussed above. The
cup 210 may be used in conjunction with an initiator as described
above and may create minimal or no fragmentation. The cup 210
includes a cylindrical portion 14 and a dome 18. A cruciform 38 may
also be added. The cruciform 38 may be positioned at the apex 42 of
the dome 18. In some embodiments, this apex 42 of the dome 18 is
added to a first end 22 of the cylindrical portion 14.
[0063] The embodiment of the cup 210 of FIG. 6 may also include a
crimped bend 266. The bend 266 may be designed to expand and/or
unfold during deployment of the initiator. Such expansion of the
bend 266 increases the longitudinal length of the cup 210. In the
embodiment of FIG. 6, the bend 266 may comprise one or more
grooves, depressions, or other similar features. These features may
be positioned, all or in part, behind a base 268. By positioning
the bend 266 behind the base 268, the cup 210 will telescope out
when the initiator deploys and the cup 210 expands in length. Of
course, in other embodiments, the bend 266 may comprise an
overlapped portion that is formed by folding the cylindrical
portion 14 (as shown above). In further embodiments, the bend 266
may be configured differently and/or may be positioned in a manner
similar to that which is shown in the embodiments above.
[0064] During deployment of the initiator, the pressure within the
cup 210 increases and causes the crimped bend 266 to expand. More
specifically, the formation of the gas 90 (not shown in FIG. 6)
pushes against the cup 210 and causes the crimped bend 266 to
unfold and expand, thereby increasing the length of the pyrotechnic
cup 210. Some of the stress/pressure associated with ignition is
used to expand the crimped bend 266, thereby reducing the amount of
stress/pressure imposed upon the welding flange 50. Such a
reduction in the amount of stress experienced by the welding flange
50 may, in some embodiments, be desirable in that it prevents the
cup 210/welding flange 50 from separating. In some embodiments, the
presence of the crimped bend 266 may also create a stress gradient
in the pyrotechnic cup 210. More specifically, the fact that the
bend 266 may expand and unfold means that there is a greater amount
of stress from the ignition/combustion proximate the cruciform 38
than there is proximate the welding flange 50.
[0065] The embodiments of FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6 may further be used
in conjunction with the initiator assembly 12 that was described
above. Further, the embodiments of FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6 may also be
used in conjunction with an initiator 70, a squib 78, and/or
combustible material (all of which are shown in FIG. 2) in the
manner described above. Many of the features and/or elements
discussed above in conjunction with FIGS. 1-4 may additionally be
added to and/or used in conjunction with the embodiments of FIGS.
5A, 5B, and 6.
[0066] FIGS. 7 and 7A represent another embodiment of a pyrotechnic
cup 310. This cup 310 is similar to that which is described above.
Accordingly, for purposes of brevity, only the differences between
the cup 310 and the other embodiments will be described herein.
With respect to the cup 310, the cruciform 38 is not positioned at
the apex of the dome. Rather, the cruciform is on the cylindrical
portion 14. As shown in FIG. 7, only one cruciform 38 is added.
However, additional cruciforms 38 may be added around the
circumference of the cylindrical portion 14. Further as shown in
FIG. 7, the cruciform is not a "star" shape, but rather is simply a
tab that may be added. FIG. 7A shows how this tab shaped cruciform
38 may open during deployment.
[0067] The embodiment of FIGS. 7 and 7A includes the crimped bend
166 and the overlapped portion 167, as was shown in described in
FIGS. 5A and 5B. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that
other types of crimped bends, as described herein, may also be
used.
[0068] Referring now to FIG. 8, another embodiment of a pyrotechnic
cup 410 is illustrated. The pyrotechnic cup 410 is similar to the
embodiments shown above. More specifically, the cup 410 is similar
to the cup 310 of FIG. 7 and includes a crimped bend 166 and an
overlapped portion 167. However, other types of crimped bends may
also be used. The cup 410 includes a cruciform 38 that is
positioned on the cylindrical portion 14. More than one cruciform
38 may be added around the circumference of the cylindrical portion
14. The cruciform 38 is star-shaped, like other embodiments
heretofore described.
[0069] Referring now to FIGS. 9 through 11, a different aspect of
the present embodiments will now be described. Specifically, FIGS.
9 through 11 illustrate different ways in which the cup 10 of FIG.
2 may be attached to the initiator 70 and/or squib 78. Although the
depiction in FIGS. 9 through 11 is made with respect to the
pyrotechnic cup 10 of FIG. 2, those skilled in the art will
appreciate that the attachment mechanisms shown in FIGS. 9 through
11 may equally be applied to the other embodiments of the
pyrotechnic cups discussed herein. As shown in FIG. 9, the cup 10
may be welded, such as resistance welded, to the initiator 70
and/or the squib 78. This resistance weld is shown by element 500.
In FIG. 10, the pyrotechnic cup 10 is welded to the initiator 70
and/or the squib 78 via a lapweld (which is sometimes referred to
as a lapweld transparence weld). This weld may be added at the butt
502 and the side 504 of the initiator 70 and/or the squib 78. Other
types of welds or welding techniques may also be used. In FIG. 11,
the pyrotechnic cup 10 is attached by crimping or welding (via any
of the known types of welding techniques) the ends 510 of the cup
10 around all or a portion of the initiator 70 and/or the squib 78.
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any number of
techniques may be used for attaching the pyrotechnic cup to the
initiator 70 and/or the squib 78. Those shown in FIGS. 9 through 11
are given only as exemplary of the different types of methods that
may be used.
[0070] Referring now to all of the Figures, the present embodiments
also relate to a method for preventing fragmentation of a
pyrotechnic cup in an inflator. The method may include the step of
obtaining a pyrotechnic cup 10, 110, 210 or any of the other cups
described herein. This pyrotechnic cup comprises a cylindrical
portion 14, a dome 18 attached to a first end 22 of the cylindrical
portion 14, and a cruciform 38 positioned at the apex 42 of the
dome 18. The method also includes the step of positioning the cup
10 around a squib 78 and a combustible material 82. Once
positioned, the dome prevents fragmentation of the cup.
[0071] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its structures, methods, or other
essential characteristics as broadly described herein and claimed
hereinafter. The described embodiments are to be considered in all
respects only as illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope of
the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims,
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
* * * * *